“We’re asking every vendor to offer a hot dog. It has to be something unique. [For instance] Browntrout is offering a falafel dog,” said Northcenter Chamber Executive Director Garrett FitzGerald.

The festival, which is being expanded from a much smaller, previous location north of Irving Park Rd, between Damen and Lincoln Ave., is hosted by the Northcenter Chamber and operated by Star Events.

Befitting the hot dog theme, FitzGerald says the festival will be sponsored by Vienna Beef, who’s tube steaks will be made available at many of the food vendors. Local food vendors will include Sola, Black Rock and the above mentioned Browntrout.

In other news, the Northcenter Chamber Board has voted to commit $30,000 of revenues from the 2011 Ribfest to local philanthropic activities. Last year the Chamber funded programs at Coonley Elementary, the Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club and Artwalk Ravenswood, among other programs.